AUGUSTA – Eight new fires were reported yesterday in Bingham, Standish, Burlington, Greenville, Lebanon and Ogunquit. Although all fires were contained fairly quickly, the risk of out-of-control fires is great.

“Fire danger levels have risen considerably over the past two weeks, as intense heat and brisk winds have now driven the fire danger to Very High in much of southern and central sections of our state,” according to Bill Williams, state fire control supervisor, Department of Conservation/Maine Forest Service.

“A great deal of caution should be exercised, as even the smallest spark or heat source could result in a major forest fire,” added Williams.

Very high danger levels were predicted for much of the counties of York, Androscoggin, Kennebec, Oxford, Franklin, Waldo, Somerset, Penobscot, and the southern half of Piscataquis. Should winds increase during the afternoon, many other counties could also reach a Class 4 Day, or very high. All residents and visitors are asked to refrain from building any open fire, unless receiving prior approval by local fire officials or Maine Forest Service Rangers. At least one full inch of rain is needed to reduce the fire danger to moderate levels.

Forest rangers report fires are burning very deep into the ground, requiring extensive mop-up efforts. Much of the ground moisture has been depleted, and, in many cases, recent fires have started on the surface and have burned down to mineral soil.

Firefighters throughout Maine will be keeping an eye out for thunderstorms and lightning, which could ignite many more fires. When conditions become dry, lightning strikes can smolder in a tree, stump or ground for days or even a few weeks, before igniting surrounding vegetation.

The public is asked to call 1-888-900-3473 to report any unattended or uncontrolled fire.